With the first generation CTS, Cadillac have gone a long way to dispelling the notion that American saloons handle like jellies. Intensive development at the Nurburgring has resulted in a near 8-minute lap time - a match for recognised uber-handlers the BMW M3 and M5, albeit the previous versions.

This laudable performance is thanks in no small part to the 400bhp V8 from the Corvette Z06. This, coupled with the tweaked suspension and 4-pot Brembo brakes finally make the CTS a viable alternative to the dominant German super saloons.